Craving pancakes but cooking just for yourself? This easy One Serving Pancakes recipe is your perfect solution. In under 15 minutes, you can whip up a stack of fluffy, delicious pancakes using ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Say goodbye to leftover batter and hello to a perfectly portioned breakfast or brunch!
Three pancakes stacked on a plate and topped with melted butter and blueberries.
If you’re a fan of single-serving breakfast treats, explore our collection of Pancake Recipes for One! Discover the light and airy Buttermilk Pancakes, the naturally sweet Banana Pancakes, the incredibly convenient Small Batch Sheet Pan Pancakes, and even a handy Small Batch Pancake Mix. With so many delightful options, finding your go-to pancake recipe has never been easier!
Why This Recipe for Pancakes for One is a Game Changer
- Speed and Simplicity: This recipe uses basic kitchen staples and comes together in mere minutes. Perfect for those busy mornings or when pancake cravings strike unexpectedly.
- Perfectly Portioned: Designed for solo cooks, this recipe yields just two to three pancakes. No more waste, just the right amount for a satisfying single serving.
- Effortless Cleanup: Fewer ingredients mean less mess. Enjoy your pancakes without dreading a mountain of dishes.
- Ultimate Customization: Your pancake, your rules! Top them with classic maple syrup, fresh berries, decadent chocolate chips, a dollop of whipped cream, or anything else your heart desires.
- Versatile Base: This recipe is a fantastic foundation for experimenting with flavors. Get creative and make it your own!
Simple Ingredients for Your Single Serving Pancakes
Ingredient shown for pancake recipe includes milk, baking powder, flour, vanilla, sugar, an egg, and salt.
For precise measurements, please refer to the recipe card at the end of this post. If you find yourself with leftover ingredients after making these single serving pancakes, our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder can help you find delicious ways to use them up!
- All-Purpose Flour: The base of our pancakes, providing structure.
- Baking Powder: The magic ingredient that makes these pancakes light and fluffy. Don’t skip it!
- Granulated Sugar: Just a touch for a hint of sweetness.
- Salt: A pinch to enhance all the other flavors.
- Large Egg: Binds the ingredients and adds richness and moisture.
- Milk: Use your favorite – low-fat, whole milk, almond milk, or oat milk all work wonderfully.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor profile, adding warmth and depth.
- Melted Butter: For a richer, more tender pancake. Salted butter is recommended; if using unsalted, consider adding a tiny pinch more salt to the dry ingredients.
Delicious Variations to Elevate Your One Serving Pancakes
- Banana Pancakes for One: For a naturally sweeter and fruitier pancake, mash half a ripe banana and gently fold it into the batter.
- Buttermilk Pancakes for One: Swap out the milk for buttermilk to create pancakes with a delightful tang and extra fluffiness.
- Blueberry Pancakes for One: Add a handful of fresh blueberries to the batter for bursts of juicy sweetness in every bite.
- Chocolate Chip Pancakes for One: Stir in a tablespoon or two of chocolate chips for a decadent, chocolatey treat.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pancakes for One
These photos will guide you through the process of making your single serving pancakes. For detailed ingredient quantities and complete instructions, please see the recipe card below.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until well combined. This ensures even distribution of the baking powder for fluffy pancakes.
egg, milk, and melted butter in a mixing bowl.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg until lightly beaten. Then, add the milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Whisk until all wet ingredients are fully incorporated.
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Combine Wet and Dry: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir with a spatula or whisk just until the dry ingredients are moistened and no large streaks of flour remain. It’s okay if the batter is slightly lumpy – avoid overmixing, which can lead to tough pancakes. If the batter seems too thick, gradually add a tablespoon or two of milk until it reaches a pourable consistency.
one pancake cooking in a skillet.
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Cook the First Pancake: Heat a lightly oiled skillet or griddle over medium heat. You can use butter or cooking spray to grease the pan. Once hot, pour about half of the pancake batter (approximately 1/2 to 3/4 cup, depending on desired pancake size) onto the hot skillet.
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Flip and Finish Cooking: Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles start to form on the surface of the pancake and the edges look set. Gently flip the pancake with a spatula and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side, until golden brown and cooked through.
pancake batter being poured into a skillet.
- Repeat and Serve: Transfer the cooked pancake to a plate. Repeat steps 4 and 5 with the remaining batter to make your second pancake.
two pancakes on a plate topped with blueberries, butter, and syrup.
Enjoy your freshly made pancakes for one immediately with your favorite toppings!
RELATED: 20 Single Serving Breakfast Recipes To Start Your Day Right
Expert Tips for Perfect Pancakes Every Time
- Measure Flour Correctly: For accurate flour measurement, fluff the flour in your container, spoon it into a dry measuring cup, and level it off with a straight edge. Avoid scooping directly from the container, as this can pack the flour and result in too much flour in your recipe.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing develops gluten, which can make your pancakes tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined. A few lumps are perfectly fine!
- Fresh Baking Powder is Key: Ensure your baking powder is fresh and active for the best rise and fluffy texture. If you’re unsure, test a small amount in hot water – it should bubble vigorously.
- Know When to Flip: The bubbles forming and popping on the surface of the pancake are your signal to flip! This indicates that the underside is cooked and ready to be turned.
Delicious Serving Suggestions for Your Pancakes for One
Here are some tasty ways to enjoy your homemade pancakes:
- Classic Syrup and Butter: The quintessential pancake topping! A pat of butter and a drizzle of maple syrup is always a winner.
- Fresh Fruit: Add a healthy and flavorful touch with sliced bananas, fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), or apple slices.
- Nut Butter and Honey: For a protein boost and extra sweetness, spread your favorite nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter) and drizzle with honey.
- Yogurt and Granola: Top your pancakes with creamy Greek yogurt and crunchy granola for added texture and a balanced breakfast.
- Chocolate Chips and Whipped Cream: Indulge your sweet tooth with extra chocolate chips and a dollop of homemade whipped cream.
- Fruit Compote: Elevate your pancakes with a warm fruit compote made from berries, apples, or peaches.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pancakes for One
Can I prepare the pancake batter in advance?
While it’s best to cook pancake batter fresh for the lightest texture, you can make it a couple of hours ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate the batter. Before cooking, give it a gentle stir and add a splash of milk if it has thickened.
Why are my pancakes flat and not fluffy?
Flat pancakes are often caused by expired baking powder or overmixing the batter. Double-check your baking powder’s expiration date and remember to mix the batter just until combined, avoiding overmixing.
How do I know when it’s time to flip my pancakes?
Watch for bubbles forming on the surface of the pancakes. When the bubbles start to pop and the edges look set, it’s time to flip them.
Can I easily double this recipe to make pancakes for two?
Yes! Simply double all the ingredient quantities in the recipe to make a batch of pancakes for two people.
How should I store leftover pancakes (if there are any!)?
Let any leftover pancakes cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or in a skillet until warmed through.
Can I freeze pancakes for future breakfasts?
Absolutely! Pancakes freeze beautifully. To freeze, let the pancakes cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 30-45 minutes until solid. Then, transfer the frozen pancakes to a freezer-safe bag or container, placing parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. To reheat, microwave a pancake for about 20-30 seconds or warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven wrapped in foil for about 10 minutes.
RELATED: 15 Easy Single Serving Dessert Recipes for Sweet Cravings
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RELATED: 40 Simple Recipes Perfect for College Students
If you try this one serving pancakes recipe or any other recipe from One Dish Kitchen, please rate the recipe and leave a comment below to let us know how you liked it!
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Cooking For One, Deliciously Simple
Because treating yourself is always worth it.
One Serving Pancakes Recipe
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.82 from 322 votes
By: Joanie Zisk
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2 pancakes
Make fluffy pancakes for one with this incredibly easy recipe! Perfectly portioned for a single serving, ready in just 15 minutes, and made with simple pantry ingredients for a quick and satisfying breakfast or brunch.
Watch How To Make This
[Video Placeholder – would be embedded here]
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Skillet or Griddle
- Spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ tablespoon granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup milk (any kind)
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon salted butter, melted, plus extra for greasing the pan
Instructions
- Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then whisk in the milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth.
- Make the Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently just until combined. Add a splash more milk if batter is too thick.
- Heat the Skillet: Melt a small amount of butter in a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Cook Pancakes: Pour about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of batter onto the hot skillet for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through, flipping when bubbles form on the surface.
- Serve: Transfer cooked pancakes to a plate and repeat with remaining batter. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Recipe Notes
- Measuring Flour: Fluff, spoon, and level your flour for accurate measurement.
- Batter Consistency: Mix until just combined – a few lumps are okay! Avoid overmixing.
- Baking Powder Freshness: Use fresh baking powder for fluffy pancakes.
- Flipping Time: Flip when bubbles appear and start to pop on the pancake surface.
Nutrition Information
Serving: 1 pancake, Calories: 228kcal, Carbohydrates: 38g, Protein: 9g, Fat: 6g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Cholesterol: 82mg, Sodium: 472mg, Potassium: 301mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 5g, Vitamin A: 344IU, Calcium: 149mg, Iron: 2mg
Nutritional information is an estimate from an online calculator and should not replace advice from a professional nutritionist.
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